The use of trusts in the modern, globalized economy is expanding rapidly. Trusts are employed, among many other purposes, for tax and estate planning, to protect assets from political unrest, and to address forced heirship issues. Indeed, they have almost become a necessity in an era which has seen the rise of multinational corporations, the frequent adoption of residence in another country by retirees and expatriates. This text presents an overview of 15 jurisdictions where trusts are part of the economic and legal landscape. It comprises 27 expert papers, contributed by practitioners and academics, on various aspects of trust law, taxation and related subjects, both on and offshore. The work will be a valuable resource for the specialist practitioner wishing to gain a broader, international perspective, and for the professional newer to the field who requires a good basic knowledge of the subject.